The Environment Agency has been clearing "pinch points" along the River Thames to ensure water continues flowing further downstream.

BBC: Thames Water says drainage system 'overwhelmed'

The fast flowing water of the Eisbach ploughs into a deeper section of the river that barely moves at all, creating a consistent, albeit dangerous, wave effect.

BBC: Riding the wave of change on Munich��s Eisbach

When the dinghy capsized in the River Swale, the boy grasped hold of a branch in the fast-flowing water.

BBC: Man died after North Yorkshire dinghy 'adventure'

Instead, the living roof acts as a natural filtration system, with excess storm water collecting in retention ponds before flowing into the nearby Rouge River.

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In Kent, water was held back at the Leigh Barrier near Tunbridge Wells, preventing it flowing down the River Medway towards Tonbridge.

BBC: South hit by severe floods